Microsoft’s Windows update, what you need to know and how to get it

The Light theme was first announced back in November, but it was only available to members of the Windows Insider Program – essentially beta testers.

While Windows 10’s default theme largely includes light and white elements, major components like the Task Bar and Start Menu use dark transparency that might mess with your minimalist mojo.

The Light Theme fixes that with a light-frosted glass look throughout various elements, as well as white backgrounds throughout the OS. There’s also a lighter default wallpaper to go along with it.

Keeping to its promise of semiannual updates, Microsoft today announced it’s made the next big version of Windows 10 available.

The simply-named Windows 10 May 2019 update isn’t as packed with features as its predecessors, but there are still a few things to note. In particular, it includes a new ‘Light’ theme; dark mode haters rejoice.

How to get the Windows 10 May 2019 Update
Beginning today, the May 2019 Update is available for customers who would like to install the latest release.

If you are ready to install the update, open your Windows Update settings (Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update) and select Check for updates. Once the update appears, you can select Download and install now. (Note: You may not see Download and install now on your device as we are slowly throttling up this availability, while we carefully monitor data and feedback).

Once the download is complete and the update is ready to install, we’ll notify you so that you can pick the right time to finish the installation and reboot, ensuring the update does not disrupt you.

This new ‘Download and install now’ capability is available for devices running Windows 10, version 1803 or version 1809 that also have the May 21st updates (or later) installed. For more information on the new user update controls and how to get the May 2019 Update, watch this video.

Other changes in the latest Windows 10 update:

Integrated support for Kaomoji like (⊃｡•́‿•̀｡)⊃, ヽ(ˇヘˇ)ノ, ٩(╬ʘ益ʘ╬)۶, etc

Applications can now be sandboxed for extra security. It’s essentially a simple way to run a virtual machine that doesn’t put your primary windows install at risk.

Cortana and Search are now separate to reduce confusion

There’s a new snip tool for capturing screenshots

Windows will now use AI to determine when you’re not using your computer to install updates

Major feature updates will no longer be installed automatically (unless you take a really long time to update). You’ll also be able to delay security and bug fixes for up to five weeks.